My DH threw a 60th surprise party for me with a Hawaiian theme and rented out a smallish room in the lodge. We had plenty of time to socialize after the meal. He did pay for everyone's dinner and went a little overboard with a DJ but our friends would have paid for their own meal if that had been the case. I think what you want to do is have time to talk to everyone after you eat. Don't let others ruin your plans. It will be fine!